Assistant Extension Professor & Shellfish Aquaculture Specialist

The University of Maine is seeking an accomplished and motivated Assistant Extension Professor and Shellfish Aquaculture Specialist with expertise in applied marine science and aquaculture systems. This position is integral to advancing research, education, and outreach efforts that support the sustainability and growth of the shellfish aquaculture industry. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to scholarly research, stakeholder engagement, and Extension programming, with the ability to develop collaborative partnerships that enhance the reach and impact of their work. This is a full-time, fiscal year and continuing contract eligible (tenure) faculty appointment, soft money funded position.

Complete Job Description

Who We Are: 

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension has been a vital resource for over 100 years, connecting communities with university research to improve lives across the state. Our focus areas include the Maine Food System and Positive Youth Development through 4-H programs, delivered by a network of experts based in county offices statewide.

We pride ourselves on being an equitable, sustainable, and enjoyable workplace, and we welcome diverse perspectives and experiences. We also believe in work and life balance and offer benefits to support you. Learn more about our mission and work at extension.umaine.edu.

Knowledge and Skill Qualifications We Are Looking For:
Required:

These are required knowledge and skills so be sure that you demonstrate how you meet each one in your resume or cover letter. 

• Doctorate required in Marine Biology, Aquaculture, Marine Science, or a closely related field
• Approximately 3-5 years experience in shellfish eco-physiology, aquaculture husbandry, and marine production systems
• Documented ability to conduct high-quality scientific research, as evidenced by grant acquisition and publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Experience applying statistical and mechanistic modeling approaches to marine or aquaculture research questions
• Experience conducting field-based marine research, including work in experimental or commercial aquaculture systems
• Experience managing or supporting aquaculture infrastructure, such as experimental sea farms or hatchery systems
• Ability to collaborate effectively with academic researchers, aquaculture industry partners, and community stakeholders
• Experience communicating scientific findings to applied audiences, including through workshops, courses, or extension-style programming
• Knowledge of current and emerging issues, practices, and trends in the shellfish aquaculture industry
• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills
• Computer and mobile device proficiency
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to be self-motivated and directed
• Demonstrated success in working collaboratively with other agencies and organizations, including private industry

Preferred:

These are preferred knowledge and skills we are looking for but do not exclude you from the job if you don’t have this experience.

• At least 2 years postdoctoral research experience in aquaculture or marine science
• Experience with environmental monitoring and remote sensing applications in marine or aquaculture systems
• Experience developing or delivering industry-focused training, workshops, or farmer education programs
• Demonstrated experience conducting interdisciplinary aquaculture research integrating physiology, production, and environmental data
• Experience with mechanistic growth modeling methods
• Experience managing field sites, coordinating research activities, or supervising technical staff, students, or interns
• Familiarity with shellfish aquaculture in Maine and the northeastern United States or comparable coastal systems
• Experience seeking participation from and working with diverse audiences
   

Benefits:

Benefits are an important part of your total compensation. The University of Maine System (UMS) strives to provide high-quality, affordable, family-friendly benefit options to meet the needs of our diverse workforce. We offer an excellent benefits package that includes paid time off (holidays, vacation and sick), health, dental, vision and life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, a tuition waiver program for eligible employees and dependents, a 403(b) retirement plan and more. 

Other Information: 

To be considered for this position you will need to “Apply” and upload the documentation listed below:

1.) a cover letter which describes your experience, interests, and suitability for the position
2.) a resume/curriculum vitae

Candidates selected to proceed to the final stages of the search process will be requested to provide a list of names and contact information for references.

Incomplete application materials cannot be considered. Materials received after the initial review date will be reviewed at the discretion of the University.

Applicants who are not US citizens or green card holders must currently reside in the United States and possess a valid immigration status that allows the University to petition for an H-1B transfer or change of status. We are unable to provide sponsorship for individuals who are currently located outside the U.S. and would require a new visa to enter the country for this position.

For full consideration, materials must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. EST on June 5, 2026.

For questions about the search, please contact search committee chair: Sarah Barker, [email protected]

The successful applicant is subject to appropriate background screening. 
 

In complying with the letter and spirit of applicable laws and pursuing its own goals of diversity, the University of Maine System does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability physical or mental, genetic information, or veterans or military status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities. The University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services, 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, University of Maine, Orono, ME  04469-5713, 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System).

Clery Act  

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish and distribute an Annual Security Report, (ASR) and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University’s crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University’s current campus security policies. You may view the University’s Annual Security Report. If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or you need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please contact: UMaine Police Department, 81 Rangeley Rd., The University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5794, or call 207.581.4053.